Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Technical Evaluators conducted a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) evaluation visit to 11 advanced studies programs of the College of Agriculture on July 22, 2025. The evaluation aimed to assess the programs’ adherence to the CHED quality standards.

The programs evaluated included three Doctoral degrees: Doctor of Philosophy in Agronomy, Doctor of Philosophy in Horticulture, and Doctor of Philosophy in Rural Development. Additionally, eight Master’s programs were assessed: Master of Science in Agribusiness Management, Master of Science in Agronomy, Master of Science in Animal Science, Master of Science in Entomology, Master of Science in Horticulture, Master of Science in Plant Pathology, Master of Science in Soil Science, and Master of Science in Agroecology.

In a message, BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan thanked the evaluators and CHED for organizing the visit. He highlighted the importance of obtaining the COPC as part of quality assurance to ensure that the University delivers quality education.

Following Laruan’s message, Office for Quality Assurance and Accreditation staff member Evelyn D. Rosario introduced the BSU officials. CA Dean Constantino T. Sudaypan introduced the local task force, while CHED-Office of Programs and Standards Development representative May de Mesa-Zapanta introduced the CHED Technical Evaluators: Aimee Lynn B. Dupo and Adolfo C. Manuel Jr. CHED Regional Director Septon A. De La Cruz was represented by Abraham P. Os-osa during the evaluation.

Dupo then explained the mechanics of the visit, stating that each program coordinator would present the highlights of their respective programs. Each presentation should include the faculty profiles and curriculum, indicating the curriculum map, study plan, and program outcomes.

Next, CA Advanced Studies Coordinator Mary Arnel D. Garcia, presented the common areas of the programs. Among the areas were the accreditation levels of each program and the approval from the board.

The presentation of each program followed. The Doctor of Philosophy in Agronomy program was presented by Esther Josephine D. Sagalla, the Doctor of Philosophy in Horticulture by Leila Mary A. Ayban, and the Doctor of Philosophy in Rural Development by Sudaypan.

For the Master of Science in Agribusiness Management, it was presented by Jenifer P. Domolog; Master of Science in Agronomy by Jake L. Galian; Master of Science in Animal Science by Leo S. Laruan; Master of Science in Entomology by Gemma S. Das-ilen; Master of Science in Horticulture by Alma A. Amado; Master of Science in Plant Pathology by Judith G. Lawilao; Master of Science in Soil Science by Arlene G. Wayet; and Master of Science in Agroecology by Lynn J. Talkasen.

After the presentations, Dupo and Manuel shared their findings based on the documents submitted. Areas for improvement were identified and discussed, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing the quality education.

In conclusion, President Laruan expressed his commitment to ensuring that all departments comply with the recommendations and necessary submissions to uphold the university’s educational standards.//BTayaban